Keep the resolution satisfying yet unexpected from "summary" of Plotting and Writing Suspense Fiction by Patricia Highsmith
The resolution of a suspense story should be both satisfying and unexpected. It should tie up loose ends and provide closure for the reader, while also delivering a twist or revelation that keeps them on their toes. This balance is essential to creating a truly engaging and memorable conclusion to a suspenseful narrative. One way to achieve this balance is to set up expectations throughout the story that are subtly subverted by the resolution. By hinting at certain outcomes or foreshadowing events in a way that leads the reader to believe they know how the story will end, the author can then surprise them with a unexpected twist that defies their predictions. Another effective technique is to introduce new information or a previously unseen perspective in the resolution that sheds new light on the events of the story. This can be done through the introduction of a new character, a revelation about a character's true motivations, or a sudden shift in the narrative that changes the reader's understanding of what has come before.- The key is to keep the resolution both satisfying and unexpected by striking a careful balance between closure and surprise. This balance is what keeps the reader engaged and invested in the story until the very end, and ensures that they will remember it long after they have finished reading. By carefully crafting the resolution in this way, the author can create a truly unforgettable and impactful conclusion to their suspenseful narrative.
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